Lamar Park RA #10

Clint Tucker

4/29/12             

Journalism 102                                                  Lamar Park is Booming

                Lamar Park has been one of the bright spots for the Oxford community in the recent years. With summertime right around the corner, people are starting to pack the park again by walking, running, and just enjoying the sun.

                Lamar Park is a one and a half mile loop that was built over an old country club. Located just outside of town on Country Club Road, the park has become popular for its convenient location, relaxed, family feel, and its scenic views that attract all sorts of crowds.

                 It was recently ranked the #6 of #9 things to do in Oxford according to the Lonely Planet Travelers. Visitors bike, walk, jog, run, and do just about everything imaginable.

                “I come here all the time and it’s just an awesome place for me and my friends to come walk. It’s quiet and secluded off the road and it’s a great place to get away from things.” Emily Davis, a graduate student at Ole Miss.

                One major reason that it is a hot spot is because it allows people to bring their pet(s) from home. As long as visitors keep their pet on leashes, quiet, and clean up after them, then they are allowed to walk them around the park.

                One thing is for sure, this summer will be yet another busy one for the park.  It gives everyone an opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the people and city of Oxford. Who knows? You might even see Ole Miss’ own Eli Manning running around out there.

Mavis Staples moves crowd at Double Decker

With acts ranging from lo-fi indie singer Iron and Wine to alternative rockers Deer Tick to alt-country crooner Patterson Hood to local favorites Young Buffalo, this year's Double Decker Arts Festival certainly enjoyed its fair share of talented musical acts. Perhaps one of the most impressive was Saturday evening's headliner, soul singer Mavis Staples.

A rhythm and soul, blues and gospel singer from Chicago, Staples was once a member of the influential Staples Singers band and has been active in the music industry for over fifty years. Although Staples primarily tours as a solo act now, she brought her whole band to Oxford for the festival performance.    

Taking the stage at 9:00 PM Saturday evening, Staples launched immediately into her soul-filled set. Staples played a wide range of songs covering her extensive music career and interspersed among her songs, the former civil rights activist also included a healthy dose of social commentary concerning the state of the country.

Throughout the evening, Staples interacted with the crowd and even joked about moving to Oxford given the warm reception she had received thus far at the festival. Earlier in the evening Staples even joined an earlier performer, the Funky Meters, on stage.

Oxford residents, Ole Miss students, and visitors alike crowded close to the Caterpillar Main Stage where Staples performed, and generations gathered together to hear the music legend.

"I grew up listening to Mavis Staples my whole life and it was great to finally see her live," stated Peter Englert, a freshman journalism major. "Her show was easily the best I saw at Double Decker this year."

"It was great to see such a legend perform tonight," said Austin Williamson, a concertgoer and native of Dallas Texas. "I don't often come to Oxford, but when I do, it's for events just like this. This is what's great about this city."

Even after a half century performing, Staples kept the Oxford crowd on their feet and moving through her hour-long set, an excellent close to the 17th year of Double Decker.

Next weekend, Staples continues her summer tour at Jazz Fest in New Orleans, Louisiana. For more information about Mavis Staples or to see her other upcoming festival dates, check out her website here.

Patterson Hood of Drive-By Truckers Performs at Double Decker

On Saturday, Patterson Hood, who usually shares vocal duties with Mike Cooley in the popular alt-country band Drive-By Truckers, was in Oxford in support of his solo projects, which include two albums—2009’s Murdering Oscar (and other love songs) and 2004’s Killers and Stars. The show drew one of the larger crowds at Double Decker, despite the 85 degree temperatures when his set began.

Hood mostly performed songs from these two albums, along with a few songs he sings with Drive-By Truckers and a few new songs set to be released on an upcoming album. Though he rejects the label of “protest singer,” many of his songs had a strong political bent, including a new song in which he sings against the development of downtown Atlanta. “Who needs a downtown when there’s a Wal-Mart next door,” Hood crooned.

The crowd at the show was a mixed lot. Ole Miss students wearing Polo brand shirts and Cole Haan shoes stood next middle-aged men with long hair and “Brad Morris for Congress” stickers (Morris is the Democratic candidate in the upcoming election for Mississippi’s First District).

The diverse nature of the crowd seemed to belie a strong division among Hood’s (and Drive-By Trucker’s) fan base—the split between those who enjoy the love songs and stories of the South for which Hood and the band are known and those who strongly support the band’s message of class solidarity and anti-corporatism.

“Patterson Hood and DBT… I feel like their music just speaks to so many different people,” said Mark Roberts, a senior at Ole Miss. “I’m not a fan of his political message, but I like everything else they’ve done.”

Roberts’ statement was reflected by the reactions of the crowd. When Hood sang the Wal-Mart line mentioned above, many of the fans stood stone-faced, while others yelled and clapped.

For more information on Hood and upcoming tour dates, visit www.pattersonhood.com.

My most recent video, I think this one worked last time.

Dorm Break Ins

This is my second video, still don't know if you ever got it or not so I'm just posting again!

Chi O Crawfish

this is the first video I don't know if it worked before

MM#3

Police Aren't the Only Ones Using Breathalyzers

      Breathalyzers have recently been introduced to the square and the people of Oxford seem to appreciate it. These machines are in the form of a vending machine and hope to help people not drive when they have passed their limit and give some bars a few extra bucks.

     These interactive machines are meant to help people in knowing their limit, but some students of Ole Miss disagree with what the use of the machines are. Daniel Blount, Ole Miss Freshman, says,"I feel like they are a good idea, except for the way that they can be used against police. If a student blows a .07 on this, then blows a .08 for a cop, there will be lawsuits."

     So is this machine something that's going to help stop drunk driving, or is it going to give people a reason to drunk drive. It can in fact go either way, and the accuracy of a machine can't be to blame for more drunk drivers on the roads.

     The machine does have some neat features, like the ability to call a taxi if the user blows higher than a .08. The innovation of an easy way for people to call a taxi will help the people of Oxford and especially the OPD.

     The intoxbox isn't limited to just Oxford though. The creator is a Mississippi State student, and hopes to spread the machine throughout college towns. This invention could be the next big thing, or it could just be a failed invention. For now, it's time for the city of Oxford and its' people to put this machine to the test.

     Each breathalyzer is $2 and you can get three for 5$. For more information about these interactive breathalyzers, go to http://www.intox-box.com/ 

Crosby close

MM3

Double Decker Weekend



       The 17th annual Double Decker Arts Festival was held over the past weekend here in Oxford. The festival is a two-day long event that is family friendly and enjoyable for all ages.

       The festival was free on Saturday from 10am-8pm. The day was complete with art presentations, vendors selling various items, lots and lots of food.

       One of the main attractions of the festival was the Picnic Area, which is an auction of painted wooden picnic tables by various talented artists. All of the benefits of the auction were donated to the Boys and Girls Club of Oxford.

       "I think it's great how they donate the funds to the Boys and Girls Club of Oxford," stated Destiney Fucich, freshman at Ole Miss, after learning where the benefits go, "it's always good to hear about people going out of their way to help out such a great organization."

       The festival also hosted a Spring Run, which is a highly competative 6.2 mile race through Oxford, passing through many landmarks of Oxford, such as the Ole Miss campus, the William Faulkner home, and Rowan Oak.

       For more information about the weekend, you can contact Mary-Kathryn Herrington at marykathryn@oxfordcvb.com.

http://www.oxfordcvb.com/doubledecker/index.html

       

Brandon Skaggs

4/27/12

MMA #3

Double Decker On The Square

The 17th Annual Double Decker Festival started off this past weekend in Oxford on Friday April 27th through Saturday April 28th.  

The festival featured a concert on Friday and art vendors, food vendors, the Children’s Square Fair, and live music on Saturday.  There is always something to do at the festival. 

The Double Decker festival is a huge deal for everyone in Oxford, and a lot of people attend to try the foods, enjoy the entertainment, and socialize with the town.  “It’s a fun gathering with great food and entertainment.  You can look through all the vendors and tents, or enjoy music and friends,” said a Freshman at Ole Miss named Skyler Thomas 

The festival is named after Oxford’s own Double Decker bus that was imported from England back in 1994.  It is a fun attraction that has a great social atmosphere for everyone.  “The double decker bus in Oxford is cute and the festival and the bus itself adds to the charm of the town,” mentioned Emily Hugh a freshman at Ole Miss.

Friday night the concert had performers Charlie Mars starting at seven, Deer Tick around eight and finishing off with Iron and Wine at ten.  On Saturday the Festival was free and started in the morning at ten, and lasted till eight in the evening. Several other musicians performed throughout the day from ten to nine.

Alongside the concert the art vendors and food caterers were a great setting for socialization.  Several of the town’s restaurants had vendors setup.  The whole affair is a great experience bringing local residents and visitors together.  

For more information on The Double Decker Festival visit this website www.doubledeckerfestival.com/

Double Decker weekend mm#3

Anna McPherson

Marvin Williams

Journalism 102

29 April 2012

Double Decker Weekend

This past weekend, the 27^th- 29^th of April, the famous Double Decker weekend was held. Tents doubled and lined the streets of the Oxford Square as merchants came to sell their items.

            As I walked the streets of the square in the blistering hot sun, each tent brought many different items than the tent before them. There were stands of food and sweets, with long lines at every one. Blocking a few sides of the square were stages for bands to perform. It was the most crowded the square has been the whole year.

            Most of the items that people brought to sell were beautifully homemade. Out of state parent, Desi Edlen commented, “this is my first time at double decker with my daughter and I am overwhelmed at how much there is to offer us here. There is not a store or tent in sight that isn’t full of people!”

            Double Decker buses that were given to us by the queen herself, gave tours of all around Oxford, Mississippi. People lined the square in order to get on for a tour. Fathers all piled in to any restaurant with the Ole Miss baseball game on it in order to watch and get out of the heat and hustle of the outdoors.

            An artist by the name of DeAnn Williams told me, “this is my second year back and I love the atmosphere of Oxford and all of the friendly people. I can see why everyone loves this weekend so much and it’s perfect weather to host this weekend-long event. I have enjoyed selling my paintings here and I am happy when I hear that some will be hanging up in apartments or homes the next year!”

            Double Decker weekend is a family friendly weekend full of food, art, and music. It is busy but very worth the trip for those that live out of state. It is always fun to see the double decker buses around the city, and especially fun when they are used for this certain weekend.

The 17th Annual Double Decker Arts Festival RA #10

                                                    The 17th Annual Double Decker Arts Festival  RA #10

         The 17^th Annual Double Decker Arts Festival was held this weekend in Oxford, Mississippi.  The name of the festival originated from a signature bus imported from England in 1994.  The event is held on the courthouse square and brings residents and alumi to the square for a weekend of food, music, and a good time. 

            The event started on Friday night as students and their families flocked to the square.  The officers on horseback blocked off the roads and people were often seen dancing in the streets.  The bars were crowded with people, sharing stories of their college days and having a good time.

Two stages were set up on the north and south end of the square.  Headliners like Iron & Wine, Mavis, and Grace Askew were there playing as the crowd cheered them on.  Double Decker also gave local bands an opportunity to play in the festival.  Young Buffalo, Minor Adjustments, and Machine Gun Kelley and the G-Men were just a few of the bands participating. 

On Saturday morning, the square was filled with art vendors and people ready to update their collection.  Over a hundred artists came to Oxford.  Some of the more famous ones include Ann Evers, Arthur Covington, Chuck Lamb, and Circe Zungo.  There were also linen clothing and fashion design booths for designers to promote their brand. 

Food is another major highlight of Double Decker.  The “Taste of Oxford” is supported by local businesses like Boure, Soulshine Pizza, Taylor’s Grocery, and LB’s Meat Market.  All of the bars in Oxford participate heavily in Double Decker.  Cydni Joyer, a four year participant in Double Decker, noted, “It’s always nice to see everyone having a good time. I always look forward to the crawfish and the music.” Local artists painted picnic tables that will be auctioned off at the end of the festival.  The proceeds go towards the Boys and Girls Club of Oxford.

The event was ranked Best Large Festival Event in Mississippi by the Mississippi Tourism Association in 2009.  Double Decker is certainly a one of a kind experience.  The festival is made possible in part by sponsors in Mississippi and the surrounding area.  To learn more about tickets for next year, please visit the Double Decker Arts festival website.   

Double Decker MM#3

                                                              Double Decker MM#3

       The 17^th Annual Double Decker Arts Festival was held this weekend in Oxford, Mississippi.  The name of the festival originated from a signature bus imported from England in 1994.  The event is held on the courthouse square and brings residents and alumni to the square for a weekend of food, music, and a good time. 

            The event started on Friday night as students and their families flocked to the square.  The officers on horseback blocked off the roads and people were often seen dancing in the streets.  The bars were crowded with people, sharing stories of their college days and having a good time.

Two stages were set up on the north and south end of the square.  Headliners like Iron & Wine, Mavis, and Grace Askew were there playing as the crowd cheered them on.  Double Decker also gave local bands an opportunity to play in the festival.  Young Buffalo, Minor Adjustments, and Machine Gun Kelley and the G-Men were just a few of the bands participating. 

On Saturday morning, the square was filled with art vendors and people ready to update their collection.  Over a hundred artists came to Oxford.  Some of the more famous ones include Ann Evers, Arthur Covington, Chuck Lamb, and Circe Zungo.  There were also linen clothing and fashion design boothes for designers to promote their brands. 

Food is another major highlight of Double Decker.  The “Taste of Oxford” is supported by local businesses like Boure, Soulshine Pizza, Taylor’s Grocery, and LB’s Meat Market.  All of the bars in Oxford participate heavily in Double Decker.  Cydni Joyer, a four year participant in Double Decker, noted, “It’s always nice to see everyone having a good time. I always look forward to the crawfish and the music.” Local artists painted picnic tables that will be auctioned off at the end of the festival.  The proceeds go towards the Boys and Girls Club of Oxford.

The event was ranked Best Large Festival Event in Mississippi by the Mississippi Tourism Association in 2009.  Double Decker is certainly a one of a kind experience.  The festival is made possible in part by sponsors in Mississippi and the surrounding area.  To learn more about tickets for next year, please visit the Double Decker Arts festival website at http://www.oxfordcvb.com/doubledecker/index.html.   

MM#3 Showstoppers

“Showstoppers”

“Showstoppers” is Ole Miss Theatre’s annual musical review. The show gives theatre students an opportunity to perform number from several different types of shows from different periods in time. The theme this year is Backstage Broadway, which shows what goes on behind the curtain, and what performing is like from an actors perspective, and most of the numbers in the show are about putting on a show—The Producers, A chorus Line, Gypsy.

The musical directors for “Showstoppers” are Martha Hitch and Rene Pulliam. Pulliam also choreographed several of the numbers, but there are also several student choreographers—Senior BFA students Sam Damare, Kelee Fuller, Christopher Young, Morgan McHugh. “Showstoppers” represent theatricality ad artistry, it is the one time that theatre students get to show exactly what they are trained to do. Because it is a musical review it covers a large spectrum of genres from Jazz to Ballet  “Anyone who is interested in musical theatre or entertainment in general would find something they liked about the show, because it is so broad,” said Garrison Gibbons, Freshman, Theatre Major.

The show will be in Fulton Chapel on Wednesday April 25, Thursday April 26, Friday April 27, and Sunday April 29.

If you would like more information on “Showstoppers” or on the Ole Miss theatre department please visit: http://theatre.olemiss.edu/

http://theatre.olemiss.edu/olemisstheatre.html

http://www.olemiss.edu/depts/tickets/

By: Camille Mullins             

MM #3 (Porchivina)

Double Decker Arrives in Oxford

Oxford, Mississippi’s Double Decker Art Festival is taking place this weekend. The popular event will be in a two day format, for the second time ever. The festival will be celebrated this weekend, Friday, April 27 thru Saturday April 28 on Oxford’s very own Square. The event which celebrates food, music and the arts is free all day long. At night a ticket is required to see headliner bands such as Deer Tick, Iron and Wine and Charlie Mars at the Caterpillar Main Stage. 

Music on Saturday will showcase bands such as Star and Micey, rooster Blues and more. Local bands preform during the day time for free. Food will be for sale at vendors tents, with food from local favorites such as Funky’s, Chick-Fil-A, Abners and Sno Biz. The Square will provide many fun and family friendly activities for children, making the trip worthwhile for the whole family.

Buy tickets and receive more information at: http://www.oxfordcvb.com/doubledecker/index.html

MM #3

Brianna Witherspoon

MM #3

April 27, 2012


Double Decker Weekend is Here!

Oxford, Mississippi's Double Decker Arts Festival is finally here. The long anticipated weekend that is celebrating music, food, the arts has arrived. The two- day event will be this weekend, Friday, April 27 thru Saturday April 28 in downtown Oxford. There food, music and art for free all day long. Friday night music will be provided by Charlie Mars, Deer Tick, and Iron and Wine at the Caterpillar Main Stage. Saturday music will be available at Caterpillar Main Stage with Rooster Blues, Star and Micey, Grace Askew Mavis Staples, and more performing. Local bands of Oxford will also be performing on Saturday as well on Van Bueren Avenue. Food will be be a showcase of some of the communities favorite places. Some vendors include Abners Famous Tenders, Chick-Fil-A, Domino's Pizza, Funkys, Sno Biz, and even more. Art vendors will be present Friday and Saturday for attendees and the square fair will have enough activities to keep children and parents entertained. For music ticket visit http://www.eventbrite.com/event/3062412759?ref=ebtn. Tickets are $13.41 in advance and $18 day of show. For more details or questions visit http://www.oxfordcvb.com/doubledecker/index.html or call 662.232.2367

RA# 10 Showstoppers

New Sorority on campus

MM#3

Bow Hunting

Bow hunting is a passion that many Americans share. Whether it is chasing deer in the fall or turkey in the spring, bow hunting seems to make everything more challenging and more fun. In the world of bow hunting there are companies that stand out from everyone else.

Mathews has been making some of the best bows in the business since the 1970’s. Mathews has simply perfected the solo cam bow and their slogan “catch us if you can”, not only speaks to their bows speed but also the company’s innovation. With Mathews new bow on the market the Heli, the company has made one of the quickest shooting and lightest bows to date.

There are millions of bow companies out there, but at the end of the day you have to feel comfortable shooting the bow that you have. It could be anything from a Bowtech to a Bear, but as long as you have proper form and you are comfortable with it you will be accurate.

Broadheads have been another topic in the world of archery products. Muzzy Broadheads has been around for a long time, and they still hold the title of #1 selling broadhead in the US. Muzzy stands by its claim of bad to the bone, and they pride themselves with making some of the strongest broadheads in the world.

The key to broadheads is trying to find a sharp, durable broadhead that flies true out of your bow. After all we are trying to put animals on the ground and a quick ethical kill is desired for every type of game.

This was just a glimpse into the business of archery. There are millions of brands out there and there are diehards that swear by their personal brand. Just remember to get what you are comfortable with and have fun in the outdoors.

MM #3

Double Decker: Oxford Tradition

This Friday kicks off the 17^th annual Double Decker Festival on the square in downtown Oxford.  There will be shopping, eating, and great music all weekend. Families from all over come to double decker to enjoy the festival and see their kids at Ole Miss.

This weekend is one of the busiest weekends in Oxford. Hotels are booked, restaurants are at full capacity, and parking at the square is impossible.

Tanya Howington, a freshman at Ole Miss, is experiencing Double Decker for the first time this year. She says, “I am excited to see the festival finally. Everyone has been talking about it for weeks, and this weekend I finally get to see it. The only thing that I am not looking forward to is the massive crowd that is going to take over Oxford. It is going to be impossible to get anywhere in town, but I am excited to see that stands that surround the square. I am ready to shop!”

Double Decker creates a great opportunity for families to visit their kids at Ole Miss. Some sororities host a parents weekend because of all the festivities that happen.

Becky Wooley, mother of an Ole Miss student, says, “I have come every year that my daughter has come to Ole Miss. It is a great weekend to come to see Oxford and to see my daughter. There is so much to do and see, and I am never bored because of all the activities that are going on on the square.”

Double Decker is a great time to walk around and look at all the different booths with your friends and family. To learn more information about the festival go to http://www.oxfordcvb.com/doubledecker/index.html

double decker

Double Decker Arts Festival

The beautiful town of Oxford will be hosting the Double Decker Arts Festival         April 27-28. The town will be packed with people as they spend a day enjoying food, music, and artwork on the infamous square.

            The 17^th annual Double Decker Arts Festival will kick off Friday, April 27 with a concert on the Square. The following morning, there will be a 10K and 5K run through the rolling hills of one of the most famous SEC college towns.

The food, music, and art will continue Saturday, April 28 from 10-8. The Catepillar North Stage will be staging a variety of bands, and the family friendly atmosphere will be jammed packed with vendors. 

            Ole Miss’s newest head football coach, Hugh Freeze will be making an appearance on the Catepillar North Stage on Saturday around 3:30.

            “My family and I have been traveling to Oxford to enjoy the Double Decker Arts Festival for many years. The town of Oxford is so inviting and seeing everyone on the square having fun is great,” stated Eliza Garraway, a Jackson native.

            Many stores located on the square have banners in the window supporting the Festival and offer special sales during Double Decker weekend. “The Festival is a great way for all the shops on the square to get great business. I love to see the square thriving during this time,” said Eliza.

            For more information on the Double Decker Arts Festival, you can contact the Oxford Convention and Visitors Bureau at 662-232-2477, or online at www.oxfordcvb.com. 

MM#10

Grove Bowl a Success

Grove Bowl Week ended with the traditional BancorpSouth Grove Bowl this past Saturday. The Ole Miss campus hosted many alums and families for the various activities that day.

Tailgating began early Saturday morning in the Grove. The morning included children’s games for families, commemorative posters, t-shirts, as well as catfish and barbeque. Mid-morning, the traditional Walk of Champions took place. An awards ceremony, hosted by Eli Manning, also took place.

New Head Coach, Hugh Freeze, and the fall line-up were present for the Grove Bowl game. Kickoff for the intrasquad scrimmage was at 1pm in Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. The game was open to the public with general admission.

“The game was such an experience, especially for it being my first time attending. The game was just a preview of the season in the fall,” says John Gage, an Ole Miss freshman.

Many alums and their families were present for the game and tailgate as well. “It was so great to be back on campus and continue on the tradition,” says Nancy White, and Ole Miss alum.

The game’s proceeds benefitted the M-Club’s scholarship fund. The public can still donate at https://www.olemissalumni.com/v3/membershipinfo/join_renew.aspx ?st=li1a. All amounts are accepted. 

MM #2 The Grove Bowl

Clint Tucker

4/22/12

Journalism 102

                                                                             The Grove Bowl In Review

 

The annual Bancorp South Grove Bowl was held yesterday with a surprise crowd on hand. About 25,000 rebel faithful showed up to watch the Red and Blue Game to see what progression first year Ole Miss Coach Hugh Freeze had made during the spring

Many came in hope that the game would give the coaches a clear leader at quarterback heading into the fall. The fans were not disappointed with how their standout junior college quarterback (Bo Wallace) played Saturday. Wallace a transfer from East Mississippi Community college had a great game for the red team. He threw for 240 yards (16-26) and two touchdowns.

 

 His competition, Barry Brunetti, had a good game but in a different way. Brunetti was only 4-10 passing but ran the ball very well, rushing for 136 yards on 14 carries. Some thought Brunetti had a leg up on Wallace because he played the spread at West Virginia and he’s been here for a year. However, the game spoke for itself. Wallace appears to have set himself up as the frontrunner.

                Another player that was in contention for the quarterback job was Randall Mackay until he switched last week to the wide receiver position. Mackay, was a bit of a surprise Saturday as he took snaps from receiver, tail back, and some direct snaps at quarterback in the wildcat formation.

                Other  players that shined were wide receivers Donte Moncrief                and Ja-mes Logan. Moncrief had two touchdowns while Logan caught one as well. On the defensive side of the ball C.J. Johnson lead the team with eight tackles and a sack to go along with it. Middle Linebacker Mike Marry recorded six tackles and cornerback Dehendret Collins picked off two passes. Also the kicking game had a great day with kicker Bryson Rose connected on a 50 yarder and teammate Andrew Ritter hit a 45 yarder as well.

                The game went into overtime and saw the Red Team prevail at the last play. While there were many ups and downs throughout the game, one thing is for certain. There really isn’t much to tell until fall.